The Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester
Discover The Whitworth, Manchester’s vibrant art gallery blending historic and contemporary art within scenic parkland surroundings.
The Whitworth is a renowned art museum and gallery located on Oxford Road in Manchester. It offers a diverse collection of historic and contemporary art, set within a striking building that blends modern architecture with natural surroundings. The gallery is free to enter and features exhibitions, a café overlooking Whitworth Park, and a shop selling artist-made products. It is open Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours on Thursdays.
A brief summary to The Whitworth
- Oxford Rd, Manchester, M15 6ER, GB
- +441612757450
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-9 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Thursday evening to enjoy extended opening hours until 9pm and experience special events.
- Take a free guided tour available Tuesday to Sunday at 2pm for insights into the gallery’s history and exhibitions.
- Stop by the Whitworth Café for seasonal local produce with views over the park; note it is a cashless venue.
- Explore the Whitworth Shop for unique artist-made products linked to the gallery’s collections.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus routes 41, 42, or 142 from Manchester city centre, which typically take 15 to 25 minutes to reach Oxford Road near The Whitworth. Services run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Manchester Piccadilly station, it is about a 20-minute walk through the university campus to The Whitworth. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
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Bicycle
Manchester offers several cycling routes to The Whitworth, including dedicated bike lanes along Oxford Road. Secure bike parking is available at the gallery. Cycling time from the city centre is approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
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Car
Driving to The Whitworth is possible, but parking is limited. Nearby pay-and-display options are available with charges around £3-£5 for a few hours. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.
The Whitworth location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Whitworth
A Fusion of Art and Nature in Manchester
Nestled on Oxford Road, The Whitworth Art Gallery stands as a cultural beacon in Manchester, seamlessly integrating art with its verdant surroundings. The gallery is part of the University of Manchester and is surrounded by Whitworth Park, creating a unique setting where visitors can enjoy both artistic and natural beauty. The building itself is a blend of historic and contemporary design, featuring an elegant glass and stainless-steel extension that offers panoramic views of the park and the gallery’s art garden.Diverse and Dynamic Art Collections
The Whitworth houses an extensive collection that spans historic and contemporary art forms, including paintings, textiles, sculptures, and prints. Its exhibitions showcase works from local, national, and international artists, reflecting a broad spectrum of artistic expression. The gallery is committed to accessibility and education, offering free entry to all visitors and hosting regular guided tours that delve into its history, architecture, and current displays.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to The Whitworth can explore not only the galleries but also enjoy the on-site café, which serves local, seasonal produce and overlooks the lush parkland. The café is cashless and operates during gallery hours, providing a relaxing spot to refresh. The Whitworth Shop complements the experience by offering bespoke artist-made products connected to the gallery’s collections and exhibitions, available both in-store and online.Engagement and Events
The Whitworth is more than a gallery; it is a vibrant cultural hub that hosts a variety of events, workshops, and family-friendly activities throughout the year. Its Thursday late openings until 9pm allow visitors to experience the gallery in a different light, often accompanied by special programs or exhibitions. The gallery’s location near Manchester Museum and the university campus makes it a key part of the city’s cultural landscape.Architectural Highlights and Surroundings
The architectural design of The Whitworth is a highlight in itself, combining historic elements with modern aesthetics. The glass extension not only enhances the gallery’s visual appeal but also floods the interior with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. The surrounding Whitworth Park offers scenic walking paths, sculptures, and green spaces that extend the gallery experience outdoors, ideal for contemplation and relaxation.Accessibility and Community Connection
The Whitworth is dedicated to inclusivity, providing easy access for visitors and engaging with the local community through educational programs and collaborations. Its free admission policy ensures that art is accessible to all, fostering a welcoming environment for diverse audiences. The gallery’s integration with the University of Manchester further enriches its role as a center for research, creativity, and cultural exchange.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Old Quadrangle
0.7 km
Victorian Gothic grandeur where academic tradition meets architectural magnificence in Manchester's heart.
The Queen's Arch
0.7 km
The Queen's Arch: Manchester’s iconic Gothic gateway to a rich academic and architectural heritage on Oxford Road.
Manchester Histories
0.8 km
Uncover the vibrant history of Manchester at Manchester Histories, where stories of the past come alive through engaging exhibitions and community events.
John Dalton Statue
1.5 km
Honoring John Dalton, father of atomic theory and pioneer of colour blindness research, with a distinguished statue in Manchester.
Hotspur House
1.8 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Friedrich Engels Statue
1.9 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Historic England
1.9 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Victory Over Blindness
2.0 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Canada House, Manchester
2.0 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
2.1 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Arch of Chinatown
2.1 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Great Ancoats Street Tunnel (tram) west portal
2.2 km
A historic tram tunnel portal in Ancoats, symbolizing Manchester’s industrial heritage and urban transformation.
Connaught Building
2.2 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
LS Lowry birthplace
2.2 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
St. Peter's Square
2.2 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whitworth Park
0.1 km
Spacious self-catered student flats at the heart of Manchester’s University campus with excellent facilities and vibrant community life.
The Pankhurst Centre
0.3 km
Explore the birthplace of the suffragette movement and celebrate women's activism in this historic Manchester museum and garden.
Reflective Passage
0.5 km
Discover Reflective Passage, a tranquil, greened alley in Manchester’s Moss Side where community spirit and urban nature beautifully converge.
Elizabeth Gaskell's House
0.7 km
Step into the Victorian world of Elizabeth Gaskell in this beautifully restored Manchester home, rich with literary history and period charm.
Manchester Museum
0.8 km
Discover Manchester Museum’s vast natural history and cultural treasures in a stunning Victorian setting with free entry and immersive exhibits.
The University of Manchester
0.8 km
Explore The University of Manchester’s iconic blend of historic grandeur and modern innovation in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant cityscape.
Victoria Baths
0.9 km
Manchester’s Edwardian water palace, where ornate tiles, stained glass, and grand pools tell a story of civic pride and community life.
Sunny Alley
1.0 km
A vibrant, community-driven alley in Manchester’s Rusholme, alive with culture, art, and local spirit.
Alexandria Library
1.0 km
Discover Alexandria Library, a vibrant second-hand bookshop and community hub in Manchester’s Curry Mile, offering free English classes and local art exhibitions.
O2 Apollo
1.1 km
Historic Manchester concert hall hosting iconic rock, pop, and comedy acts since 1938 in a vibrant, versatile setting.
Al-alam Palace Manchester
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Al Alam Palace Manchester, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Hulme’s peaceful gardens.
Platt Fields Park
1.4 km
Historic green oasis in Manchester’s Fallowfield, blending heritage, nature, and vibrant community recreation.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
1.6 km
Dive into Manchester's vibrant nightlife at FAC251 - Factory Manchester, a premier nightclub and live music venue that promises unforgettable experiences.
The Vimto Park
1.7 km
Discover the historic green oasis celebrating Manchester’s iconic Vimto drink in a tranquil urban park setting.
Ashburne Tree Man
1.8 km
Discover Fallowfield’s iconic Ashburne Tree Man, a living sculpture blending nature and art in a serene urban setting.
Essential places to dine
The Refuge
1.7 km
A stylish sanctuary blending global flavors and British classics within Manchester’s iconic Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
WOOD Manchester by Simon Wood
1.8 km
Experience Simon Wood’s innovative fine dining and artisan pairings in a stylish yet relaxed Manchester setting.
Habesha Restaurant
1.9 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality at Habesha Restaurant, Manchester’s beloved spot for traditional injera and hearty stews.
Store Street Exchange Restaurant
2.0 km
Modern British dining with rotisserie specialties and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly hub.
Don Giovanni - Italian Restaurant Manchester
2.1 km
A lively Italian restaurant in Manchester’s city centre blending traditional flavours with modern style and vibrant atmosphere.
Fumo by San Carlo - Manchester
2.1 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with an art deco flair, vibrant bar scene, and shareable dishes in Manchester’s lively St Peter’s Square.
Dom's Italia
2.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
Adam Reid at The French
2.2 km
Experience innovative Northern British fine dining with theatrical flair in Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Mount Street Dining Room & Bar
2.2 km
Classic British dining with northern flair in the elegant, historic setting of Manchester’s Midland Hotel.
Podium
2.2 km
Sophisticated Modern British dining with inventive flavors and sleek modernist style in Manchester’s iconic Hilton Deansgate.
Higher Ground
2.2 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
2.3 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Evuna Deansgate
2.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Deansgate district.
Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road
2.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Don Marco
2.3 km
Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The University of Manchester Gift Shop
0.8 km
Official University of Manchester merchandise and unique gifts in a welcoming campus shop on Oxford Road.
Utility Gift Store
1.0 km
Discover quirky, trendy, and unique gifts at Utility Gift Store, Manchester’s independent boutique for stylish presents and creative designs.
Cute Things By Aggie
1.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and charming homewares crafted with natural elements in Manchester’s cozy boutique, Cute Things By Aggie.
SHMYLS - Thoughtfully Made
1.4 km
Discover thoughtfully crafted jewelry and homewares at SHMYLS, a unique gift shop nestled in Manchester’s vibrant Hatch complex.
ItsFetch
2.0 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.0 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
2.0 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
INFINITE RUNNING
2.0 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
Branded Like A Boss
2.0 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Stare Society
2.1 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
2.1 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
2.2 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
Catch my Thrift
2.3 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
needi
2.3 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts with expert personal service in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Piccadilly at Needi.
TVSeriesJackets
2.3 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gorilla
1.8 km
Manchester's ultimate hybrid haunt: brunch by day, beats by night in a funky bar-club fusion with live gigs and roasts.
The Britons Protection
2.0 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Lock 91
2.1 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Atlas Bar
2.2 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
The Deansgate
2.2 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Three Little Words
2.2 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Cloud 23
2.2 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
Bar Eight
2.3 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Alchemist New York Street
2.3 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
cask
2.3 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
The Wharf
2.3 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
2.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Speak In Code
2.4 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Hold Fast Bar
2.4 km
Dive into Manchester's Northern Quarter basement gem: nautical vibes, retro tiles, banging tunes, and chill nights at Hold Fast Bar.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
2.4 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kable
1.7 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Viva Manchester
1.8 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Club Tropicana
1.9 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Satans Hollow
2.0 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Bliss Club Manchester
2.0 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Popworld Manchester
2.1 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Ark Manchester
2.1 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Royal Vida Night Club
2.4 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
History Nightclub
2.4 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Venue Nightclub
2.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Twenty Twenty Two
2.4 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
42's
2.4 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Aatma
2.5 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Funkademia
2.6 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
2.6 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
